Baghdad – IA
President Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid confirmed today, Sunday, that the Iraqi security forces now possess the readiness and ability to confront various security challenges, while the Commander of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) mission in Iraq, Lieutenant General Jose Antonio Aguero, praised the development of the Iraqi security services and the growth of their capabilities.
The Presidency of the Republic said in a statement received by the Iraqi News Agency (INA): “The President of the Republic, Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid, received, today at Baghdad Palace, the Commander of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) mission in Iraq, Lieutenant General Jose Antonio Aguero, whose duties have ended, and Lieutenant General Cass Scherors, Commander.” New information for the mission in Iraq, in the presence of the NATO Ambassador to Iraq, Mr. Ronald Sonnemans.
During the meeting, the President of the Republic affirmed that “the Iraqi security forces now possess the readiness and ability to confront various security challenges,” noting that “the security services in their various formations are actively continuing their tasks in order to pursue the remnants of terrorism, establish security and stability, and ensure the safety of citizens.”
His Excellency pointed to “the importance of the strategic partnership with the Alliance and bilateral cooperation through providing advice and contributing to building and developing the military and combat capabilities of the Iraqi security forces.”
The President of the Republic touched on Iraq’s growing relations at the regional and international levels, stressing “the keenness to sustain and strengthen them in a way that consolidates security and peace.”
He stated, “The past period witnessed the visit of many delegations to Iraq, which indicates its return to its international standing and its pivotal role in bringing viewpoints closer between brotherly and friendly countries.”
The President of the Republic praised “the role of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in supporting the Iraqi security forces through training and rehabilitation,” praising the mission commander at the end of his duties, Lieutenant General Jose Antonio Aguero. He also welcomed the new mission commander, Lieutenant General Cass Scherors, wishing him success in his work duties.
For his part, Lieutenant General Aguero expressed his happiness at working in Iraq with the Iraqi security forces, praising “the development of the Iraqi security services and the growth of their capabilities.”
He reviewed “the alliance’s joint activities with the security forces in the field of training and preparation, human resources management and cybersecurity.”
He stressed “NATO’s keenness to support Iraq in its efforts to combat terrorism, achieve peace, and establish security and stability in the region and the world,” expressing his pride “to work in Iraq and its keenness to continue the alliance’s path of support for Iraq.”
